NHS anaesthetist shortage prevents 1.5m operations a year, report finds
Summary
A report shows that the NHS in the UK cannot perform 1.5 million operations a year due to a large shortage of anaesthetists, the doctors who provide pain relief during surgery. This shortage causes long waiting lists, delays surgeries, and affects patients' health and mental well-being.Key Facts
- The NHS is missing 2,256 anaesthetists, about 16% fewer than needed across the UK.
- About 4,000 surgeries are delayed daily because there are not enough anaesthetists.
- The biggest shortage is among senior anaesthetists, called consultants, with a gap of 1,640 posts.
- In 2023, 6,770 people applied for only 539 training places to become anaesthetists.
- 88% of hospital leaders say surgeries are postponed due to anaesthetist shortages, with 43% saying this happens weekly or daily.
- Long waits for surgery cause 31% of patients to experience worse mental health, and 36% report worsening physical health.
- Hospitals spend more money on temporary staff because of the shortage.
- The Royal College of Anaesthetists urges the government to increase training spots and keep current anaesthetists working.
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